I am an 18 year old freshman in university, and I have been training at Dogo Krav Maga for a couple years now. I began training with prior experience as I had previously trained at another studio which did not fit my needs nor taught me well, therefore I went into Dogo Krav Maga to train under Gustavo Desperatti with the hopes of a safe, friendly yet professional, and learning environment. I was very happy to experience all of these things as my training progressed, and I became more confident in my ability to protect myself efficiently and properly. The classes focus on physical fitness, but the main purpose is to teach and practice self-defense techniques that can be used in real-life situations. If you have concerns about being one female among a group of men, this is not true at all! While yes, there are often more men than women training in class, that is not always the case. I was pleasantly surprised when I met a fellow trainee at the studio who was also a female college student. Many women and girls come to train, whether just to give it a try or to continue or advance their Krav Maga skills and proficiency. The environment Gustavo and the students create and promote really makes anyone, regardless of race, gender, or identity feel welcome and able to learn equally. I am not particularly muscular, extra fit, or tall, yet I was and am able to learn, practice, and perform the techniques just as well as anyone else, further proving that anyone can try and succeed at this. Regarding experience and circumstances, Gustavo is excellent at providing a secure learning environment that ensures the safety and comfort of students. For example, if a student starts training due to an experience with violence or abuse, Gustavo will take that into account when partnering up students for events, how he teaches the techniques to that individual, and the pace that is comfortable for them. In another light, if you already possess Krav Maga skills and experience, he will make sure you do not train at a level that is not beneficial to you, but rather separate the class into groups to train on techniques and practice based on skill and experience level. He will push you to step outside your comfort zone regarding defenses, techniques, and physical effort, but will always make sure the student is not in danger of harm or being overwhelmed. I personally really love training at Dogo Krav Maga, as Gustavo is an amazing teacher, welcoming, humorous, and passionate about his job. His family trains at the studio as well, and students are often friends with one another and the family. While he is humorous and light-hearted, during training he maintains respect, a student-teacher relationship and demeanor, and takes class seriously. I feel so much more able to protect myself now than I did before I joined Dogo Krav Maga, and I can now say it also helped boost my confidence, made me more outgoing, and helped remind me to stay out of trouble and be my best self. Dogo Krav Maga is the place for you if you want to learn the skills and techniques of Krav Maga, are willing to put in the effort, and want a welcoming, safe, and serious environment to learn in. I highly recommend this studio to everyone because if I benefitted this much from training there, anyone can benefit just as much if not more. read more

I have been training at Dogo Krav Maga for over a year now. I have background in martial arts (8+yrs of experience), but have enjoyed the training I have received here. Dogo Krav Maga has become one of my homes as I get to class and am greeted by classmates because of the family the classes have created. I am very happy with the training I receive as I supplement my weight lifting with the intense cardio I receive in Krav. Is it easy? No, but Gustavo is understanding and never pushed me to a level he did not feel I could reach. He is very detail oriented in that the precision to land certain strikes and execute certain moves shows you the passion that he has for the art and his patience and willingness to teach. The flexibility in his class schedule allows for just about anyone to be able to take his class, there is a kids class available as well if you have kids and interested in them in getting a workout. Not looking for self-defense and want something more workout based? He does have a cardio kickboxing class that are like no other. (I used to do Krav Maga, then cardio Kickboxing, then lift weights. needless to say I was done for the day). Are you worried about the safety in the class? no worries, Gustavo takes time to ensure the safety of the students and makes sure that no one is going overboard with things. On top of just the general classes that Gustavo offers, he does have guest instructors come in and do master classes occassionally in specialized training in Krav Maga, Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and more! There is something for everyone there and I highly recommend you check it out. (I am also in a couple of the photos/videos on the yelp page, so I am there) read more

Dogo Krav Maga has been an incredible addition to my life over the past two years. The classes, led by Instructor Gustavo and his dedicated family, have left a profound impact on my overall well-being. This gym isn't just a place to work out; it's a holistic experience that combines physical fitness, mental strength, and self-defense skills. Instructor Gustavo's commitment to quality instruction shines through in every class. His patient and expert guidance ensures that each member can grasp the techniques and apply them in real-life scenarios. The emphasis on practical self-defense sets Dogo Krav Maga apart from traditional gyms. One of the gym's standout features is its diverse and welcoming community. The "no-ego" policy creates a supportive atmosphere, where everyone feels like part of a larger family. Whether you're a novice or more experienced, you'll find a place to grow and thrive. During my time at Dogo Krav Maga, I've not only achieved fitness goals but also gained valuable self-defense skills. This unique blend of physical training and practical knowledge has given me the confidence to face the unexpected challenges of life. If you're looking for more than just a gym, if you seek a transformative experience that combines fitness, camaraderie, and self-defense, I wholeheartedly recommend Dogo Krav Maga. It's not just about exercise; it's about empowerment. read more

My husband has been telling me to take a self defense class for years as I am smaller and he worries about my safety. I finally decided it was time to get serious and sign up for one. Being concerned about being older and overweight, I signed up for a 101 introduction class. From the first email contact, Gustavo was professional, respectful, and I immediately felt at ease. Gustavo took his time with me, patiently listened to my concerns, and assured me that there were all levels in the class and i was to go at my own pace. Wow...what a difference! With each class he personally provides guidance, watches your progression, and pushes you just enough to build on your strengths. Three months later I can really see the difference! I have lost weight, can actually see muscle building, and has improved my overall confidence! This prompted my husband and my two children to join as they saw how much I enjoyed going! The atmosphere is very family friendly and even my son (a 17 year old!) has commented how everyone there is so friendly and helpful! Everyone works together and provides motivation to each other...rarely seen at past courses I have taken. I am so very happy that I've found Dogs Krav Maga and see myself there for years to come! Try it...you WON'T be disappointed!!! read more

I've never had any martial art experience before starting training with Gustavo and was really hesitant if I'll be able to deal with the intensity of Krav Maga. Gustavo was very supportive from the first time we've met. He didn't ever push me toward signing up for class, but every time I'd come, he gave his very best in instructions. Gustavo is a talented teacher and a coach and has a great personality. His classes are always fun despite being challenging. Somehow Gustavo makes you to believe you can do it and teaches to listen to your body. He provides the individual attention to his students you won't find everywhere. Surprisingly, not only I was able to succeed in training and develop muscle strength in a couple of months I never had in my life, I gained so many other benefits along the way. The training made me more confident, increased my self-esteem, and helped me overall to feel better about myself. It was better than any counseling I've ever got I felt stronger and younger after every class. Being a woman over 50 and not very fit to say the least, I would highly recommend Dogo Krav Maga to anyone regardless of gender, age, or prior experience. read more

I'm 72 and have been training with Gustavo and family for almost two years after hip replacements and more than a decade of pain and limited movement. This place has helped me rebuild my life, not just my muscles. The new hips were the start but it was one on one personal training with Gustavo on the strength and skills that apply to everything you need or want your body to do at any age. He also helped me develop strength training workouts which I take to a gym. My balance, strength, endurance and confidence have all improved dramatically. I went from struggling to get out of a bed or chair and relying on a cane and walker to lifting my grandkids, lifting groceries in and out of the trunk, safely going up and down stairs and all the basic "activities of daily living" to once again hiking at Lake Tahoe. It didn't happen overnight but bit by bit just showing up and doing what I could is what worked. I'm looking forward to more improvements - Pickle Ball anyone? You'll notice I didn't mention self-defense. That is well covered by other posts. I can tell you though I no longer feel like a shuffling victim or easy target when I'm about town. read more

One month in training at Dogo Krav maga and I felt like I had learned more practical , real life, "on the street" self defense than all the other styles I'd studied. !!! AWESOME !!! The instructor - Gustavo - is a great instructor and a good guy - a true bad ass but patient, calm and genuinely caring about his students. The studio has great equipment and we train with all of it - bags, pads, gloves,practice weapons - you name it ! The other students are great - young , old, men , women we're all in it together and their is a lot of comradery . Gustavo treats us all well and inspires us to go all the way to each and every victory. A smart, quick , and easy to earn system that adapts to each practitioner - I can do it with injuries - it would definitely keep you safe on the streets. Taught by a master that makes learning fun my time at Dogo Krav has been very well spent and I am far more confident and capable than before I started training there.It's "Fight Club" - for real !!! read more

I can't speak more highly of Dogo Krav Maga. I attended a session about one month ago and was nervous and a little timid. While self-defense has always been something I've been interested in, I knew the techniques and maneuvers would be challenging for me. Thanks to the owner and instructor, Gustavo, all my nerves disappeared. Gustavo is extremely encouraging and knowledgeable. He takes the time to get to know you and understand why you want to learn self-defense. With that information he customizes the classes to really help members excel. I signed up for a monthly membership and the changes I have seen in myself in just a short period of time are really remarkable. In addition to becoming stronger, I find I am more aware of my surroundings. I also have noticed a boost in my confidence at work and in my personal life. Thank you Gustavo and Dogo Krav Maga! See you at the next class! read more

This review is LONG OVERDUE, simply because I usually don't write reviews. I've been training at Dogo Krav for over three years and I must say this is THE BEST PLACE to learn REAL defense. I've been doing full contact karate since I was 15, Kick Boxing (competitive) for over 20 years, MMA for about 5 years, but at the end of the day all of the above are sports that come with preset rules that you train your body to obey. As the saying goes, you fight like you train, well if you train not to kick in the groin, punch in the throat, etc you will not do it in the real "life and death" situation. Gustavo provides real case situations taken from everyday life, situations that you and I may end up, while being at the bar, walking with your family or loved ones, active shooter scenarios, etc. Simply the BEST! read more

I've been training here for about a year now, so this review is long overdue. This is a genuinely wholesome place to train. The members come from all walks of life and experience levels, and there's absolutely no ego just a welcoming, supportive atmosphere. I've trained martial arts at other schools where people feel the need to go extreme, but that's not the case here. Everyone is respectful, controlled, and looks out for one another, which makes a huge difference in both safety and learning. Instructor Gustavo takes real pride in what he teaches. His training isn't flashy choreography meant to look cool; it's practical and effective. I speak from firsthand experience; what he teaches works. read more

This review is long overdue. I've been attending Dogo Krav Maga for 6.5 years now, and joining this place has truly been one of the best decisions I've ever made. I started overweight, and through Gustavo's coaching, I lost 90 lbs. Gustavo pushes you to go beyond what you think you're capable of. His teaching is clear, focused, and supportive. He knows when to challenge you and when to guide you. His kids, Gustavo Jr. and Sam, are also incredible instructors. The entire family are amazing people, and this gym has become one of my favorite places to come to. It's a welcoming, encouraging environment where newcomers are treated with the same kindness and respect as long-time members. read more

This. Place. Is. AMAZING!!! Like, can it get any better?? This is the kind of workout that is pretty hard to come by (trust me, I know). Gustavo is such a people person, and hilarious! He's very passionate about what he does and he is one of those instructors that actually CARE to see you improve and grow. I've been here for about a year now, and I feel great, not only getting in shape (which will DEFINITELY come), but I feel like I can take on the world (non literal sense) of what I learn here about Krav Maga. Anyone who joins will join this amazing family with amazing individuals. You will definitely not regret joining! I would give this place 15 stars if I could! :D read more

This is one of the best local martial arts Gym in the Bay Area. Gus is a fantastic teacher, trainer, and sensei. He's helped me learn self defense skills from scratch as well as kick my butt in shape. I had 0 experience in martial arts and he's given me the tools needed to take care of myself in a crazy social environment. When Covid hit, Gus pivoted almost immediately and made the transition to doing online classes which was amazing. His teaching is bar-none and although it is much better to practice and learn in person, his teaching makes it so that you can learn it from home as well. Thank you for everything Gus! read more

I've been a practitioner at Dogo Krav Maga for almost two years now, so I suppose it is overdue for me to write a review. When I started I could barely do a push-up and I had no background in any kind of martial art; now I am a lean, mean self-defense machine! Krav maga is mentally and physically challenging, and Gustavo is a great motivator. I always say that my personal goal is to show up, and he does the rest---always pushing me to get better. My wife and daughter have also taken classes here, and I have recommended it to many friends. It's a terrific workout, and a very practical skill to learn. Try it! read more

Where to start!? So many good things to say about this gym. 1) Great facility with fantastic instructors (these guys really know their stuff). 2) Supportive community makes training fun and engaging. 3) Great mix of classes that support whatever your goals may be. I've been training here for about 5 months and in this time my fitness has drastically improved and I've learned fundamental self defense principles and techniques. But most importantly, I feel more confident and have a better mindset around self defense in general. Highly recommend ! read more

I have been attending Dogo Krav Maga for a year now and I bring my 9 year old son and 10 year old daughter because I value the training Gustavo offers. I find the training challenging to say the least and I can look back to a year ago and see the growth in myself and my kids. Gustavo in my opinion is a gifted teacher and he is passionate about what he teaches. The training is challenging, practical, and requires discipline and commitment, but it pays off. I would highly recommend Dogo Krav Maga to anyone interested in learning self defense. read more

As a student of Gustavo's for over a decade, I have always been impressed by his level of preparation and the quality of his training. Gustavo cares about all of his students and it shows through his teaching methods and passion. I am also impressed by his commitment to his own training. Several times a year, he attends additional training that he then shares with his students to make sure everyone is receiving up to date, quality instruction. I highly recommend Dogo Krav Maga to students of any level! read more

This family owned and operated studio works at a high quality pace. The instructors are very good with children. I have my son in with the littles and I'm blown away at the instructor Sam's patients for each and every child. She is able to attend to each individual childs needs as well as giving positive direction to the rest of her class. Highly recommend anyone who is looking for a discipline entry level experience for their young ones starting out in their martial arts journey. read more

I recently joined this martial arts gym and couldn't be happier with my experience. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and patient--they really know how to break things down and help you improve. The gym is family-owned, and you can feel the welcoming, friendly environment the moment you walk in. I've already learned so much and definitely feel stronger and more in shape since starting. Highly recommend to anyone looking for great training and a supportive community! read more